Looking for a side dish that will wow your taste buds? Maple Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts are the answer! In this post, I’ll take you through a simple recipe that makes these little gems sweet, crispy, and absolutely delicious. With just a few ingredients, you can turn Brussels sprouts into a crowd-pleasing favorite. Ready to impress? Let’s dive into how to make this tasty treat your new go-to side!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Deliciously Sweet and Savory: The combination of maple syrup and balsamic vinegar creates a unique flavor profile that enhances the natural earthiness of Brussels sprouts.
- Simple Preparation: This recipe requires minimal ingredients and effort, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings.
- Nutty Crunch: Adding pecans not only adds texture but also introduces a delightful nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the glaze.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Brussels sprouts are packed with vitamins and nutrients, making this a guilt-free side dish that everyone can enjoy.
Ingredients
To make maple glazed roasted Brussels sprouts, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Each ingredient plays a key role in the flavor. The Brussels sprouts bring a nice crunch, while the maple syrup adds sweetness. Olive oil helps everything roast well. Dijon mustard and balsamic vinegar give a tangy kick that balances the sweet. Garlic powder adds depth, and salt and pepper enhance all the flavors. If you choose to add pecans, they provide a lovely crunch. Finally, fresh parsley brightens the dish and adds color.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is key for getting crispy Brussels sprouts.
Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
Take 1 pound of Brussels sprouts. Trim the ends and slice them in half. Place them in a large bowl. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss the sprouts until they are well coated with oil and seasoning.
Roast the Brussels Sprouts
Spread the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet, cut side down. Make sure they are in a single layer. Roast them in the oven for 20-25 minutes. You want them golden brown and tender.
Make the Maple Glaze
While your sprouts roast, let’s make the glaze. In a small saucepan, mix 1/4 cup of pure maple syrup, 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar, and 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder. Add a pinch of salt and pepper. Heat over medium heat and bring to a gentle simmer for about 2-3 minutes. This gives the glaze a nice thickness.
Glaze the Brussels Sprouts
Once the Brussels sprouts are done, take them out of the oven. Drizzle the maple glaze over the hot sprouts. Toss them gently to coat every piece with the sweet glaze.
Final Roasting and Garnishing
To finish, sprinkle 1/4 cup of chopped pecans on top for extra crunch. Return the baking sheet to the oven for another 5 minutes. This helps the glaze caramelize just right. After that, take them out and sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top. Serve them warm and enjoy!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving Crispy Brussels Sprouts
To get crispy Brussels sprouts, start with dry veggies. After washing, pat them dry. Use a good amount of olive oil to coat them well. Spread them out on the baking sheet. Give them space! This helps air to flow, making them crisp.
Optimal Roasting Time
Roast the Brussels sprouts for 20-25 minutes at 400°F (200°C). Check at 20 minutes. You want them golden and tender. If they are not, keep roasting for a few more minutes. Remember, every oven is different.
Recommended Maple Syrup Types
Use pure maple syrup for the best flavor. It brings a rich sweetness. Avoid pancake syrup; it’s not the same! Darker syrups have a stronger taste, while lighter ones are milder. Choose based on your flavor desire.
Balancing Sweetness and Savory Flavors
To balance sweetness, add some Dijon mustard and balsamic vinegar. They bring a tangy taste. Garlic powder also adds depth to the flavor. Taste the glaze before using it. Adjust the sweetness or tang to your liking!
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Brussels Sprouts: Fresh Brussels sprouts will have a better texture and flavor than frozen ones, so choose them wisely for the best results.
- Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet glaze, reduce the amount of maple syrup and add a splash more balsamic vinegar for tang.
- Experiment with Nuts: While pecans add a great crunch, consider trying walnuts or almonds for a different flavor profile.
- Garnish Variations: Besides parsley, try using chives or thyme as a garnish for an additional layer of flavor.
Variations
Adding Different Nuts
You can boost the flavor and crunch by adding nuts. Pecans are great, but try walnuts or almonds too. These nuts add a nice texture and a nutty taste. Chop them up and sprinkle them on top before the last roast. This makes each bite even better.
Incorporating Additional Vegetables
Mixing in other vegetables can create a colorful dish. Carrots, sweet potatoes, or even parsnips work well. Cut them into similar sizes as the Brussels sprouts. Toss them in oil and seasoning just like the sprouts. This way, everything cooks evenly and adds more taste.
Flavor Enhancements with Spices
Spices can change the whole dish. Add a pinch of cayenne for heat or smoked paprika for a smoky flavor. You can also use herbs like thyme or rosemary. These spices will bring out the sweetness of the maple glaze. Experimenting with spices can make this dish your own.
Storage Information
How to Store Leftovers
After enjoying your maple glazed roasted Brussels sprouts, let them cool. Place the leftovers in an airtight container. Store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and tasty for your next meal.
Reheating Recommendations
To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the sprouts on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10 to 15 minutes until warm. This method helps keep them crispy. You can also use the microwave. Place the sprouts in a bowl and cover them. Heat in 30-second bursts until warm. However, this can make them softer.
Freezing Tips
If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great option. First, let the sprouts cool completely. Spread them out on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about 1 hour until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Remove as much air as possible. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat.
FAQs
How do I make Brussels sprouts taste better?
To make Brussels sprouts taste better, you can try a few easy tricks. Roasting them enhances their natural sweetness. Use olive oil, salt, and pepper for a good base. Adding a glaze, like maple syrup, brings a sweet touch. Mixing in spices or herbs can also add depth. Try garlic powder or fresh herbs to brighten their flavor.
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?
You can use frozen Brussels sprouts, but they may need some extra care. First, thaw them completely and drain any moisture. This helps them roast better. Keep in mind that they might not get as crispy as fresh ones. If you do use frozen sprouts, adjust the roasting time to ensure they cook through.
How long do roasted Brussels sprouts last in the fridge?
Roasted Brussels sprouts can last in the fridge for about 3 to 5 days. Make sure to store them in an airtight container. If they start to smell or look off, it’s best to toss them. You can easily reheat them in the oven or microwave, but they may lose some crispness.
What can I serve with maple glazed Brussels sprouts?
Maple glazed Brussels sprouts pair well with many dishes. They go great with roasted chicken or pork. You can also serve them alongside grain dishes like quinoa or rice. For a vegetarian option, try them with a hearty lentil salad. They add a nice balance to any meal with their sweet and savory notes.
This blog post showed you how to make tasty maple-glazed Brussels sprouts. You learned about the right ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for the perfect dish. I shared variations and storage tips to keep your dish fresh.
In closing, these Brussels sprouts add flavor to any meal. Enjoy experimenting with different nuts and spices to make the dish yours! Happy cooking!
